What it is
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes herpes. When it happens on the vagina, penis or anus, it’s called genital herpes. When it happens in the mouth it’s called oral herpes. You might have heard of cold sores, which is another name for it.
There are 2 types of HSV:
Both happen on the mouth and genitals.
How it happens
You can get herpes when your skin touches the skin of a person who has it. You can get it from them even when they don’t have blisters showing. When you have sex it can pass between bodies. That includes vaginal, anal and oral sex. Or you might get it from kissing or rubbing with a person who has it.
Protect your body
If herpes blisters are showing, the best way to avoid it is to not kiss, rub or have sex.
- Use condoms for penises and shared sex toys
- Use dental dams for oral sex
- Take antiviral medicine if you have it
Take the test
If you notice symptoms, a doctor will take a swab from a blister.
Treat it
There’s no cure for herpes but you can treat it. Ways to make herpes feel and look better include:
- antiviral medicines to help stop or shorten outbreaks
- paracetamol and Ibuprofen to help with pain
- saltwater baths to dry sores and help them heal
- wearing cotton underwear and loose clothing for comfort.
Need someone to talk to?
Herpes is very common. It doesn’t cause cancer or stop you having babies like some other STIs. In fact, most people have some kind of herpes, and 1 in 8 people have genital herpes.
It’s also common to feel bad after been told you have HSV. If want to talk to someone, you’re not alone.
- Talk to your doctor or Nurse Nettie.
- Join a forum to hear about other people’s stories and share your own.
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